I see alot of forums about clamp storage but not much about clamps themselves. The old saying “can’t have too many clamps” is true. the real issue is the cost of clamps. One could wrap up $100’s or even $1000’s before you realize it. I’ve wonder who out there has a good set of clamps. For example, I bought 10 pipe clamps and then bought fifteen 5’ pipes, 10 1’ pipes. I cut 5 of the 5’ pipes in half and I store all al them in one storage unit. I now can make clamp variations of 5’, 2-1/2’, or 1’ clamps. If I need some short clamps it takes only a couple of minutes to assemble them. When done, I take them apart and store the pipes separate from the clamp pieces. This gives me thirty clamp variations with only 10 clamps bought. I also bought pipe connectors so I can join 2 pipes to make even long one. I have some quick clamps and F clamps also, but I use my pipe clamps the most. I am now looking for ideas of maybe shop made clamps or clamp systems.

All Pics are welcomed

russv

-- yknotwood.com: where to go because you don't want no stinking plastic!

I started with a batch of pipe clamps and never got rid of them because you can screw the pipes together and make clamps as long as you need. But once I bought and used Bessey clamps I rarely ever used the pipes again. At one time I had about 40 or so of different lengths. Mostly to glue up rail and style type doors and panels. Since I sold my shop I only have a few. You can’t beat clamps that have square faces, no matter the brand. But, I will always have Bessey clamps and a few quick grips for one handed work in my shop.

cessna. . .I look at how much fun it can be to build something (create, design, etc.) even if I can buy one. Kinda like the guy I saw that built his own wood bandsaw or that built a wooden wood lathe. I would like building a clamp that will do as well as a bessey clamp but was made in the shop. I suspect alot of guys that have built their own workbenches would never just buy one.

I’m a big believer in buying American made or making my own.

russv

russv

-- yknotwood.com: where to go because you don't want no stinking plastic!

I don’t know. I’ve been a professional woodworker for alot of years and yes i have deadlines. beyond just you or me, still I would venture a guess that Frank Klause still does all his dovetails by hand. he sharpens his tools without an expensive Tormek. If not for that spirit, we might as well all go out and buy CNC machines.

Personally, I admire a true craftsman like Frank Klausz. That’s why, at times, neither time or money is the issue when creating something, whether you are a professional or hobbyist.

russv

-- yknotwood.com: where to go because you don't want no stinking plastic!